Front Stabilizer Control Link Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Mazda CX-5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the front stabilizer control link. (See FRONT STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Inspect for bending or damage. If there is any malfunction, replace the front stabilizer control link.
Rotate the front stabilizer control link ball joint stud 10 times and shake it side to side 10 times .
Measure the front stabilizer control link ball joint rotational torque using an Allen wrench and a torque wrench.

Fig 1: Measuring Front Stabilizer Control Link Ball Joint Rotational Torque Using Allen Wrench

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Front stabilizer control link ball joint starting torque

0.8-3.5 N.m {8.2-35 kgf.cm, 7.1-30 in.lbf}
If not within the specification, replace the front stabilizer control link.
Even if within specification, if there is excessive play in the front stabilizer control link ball joint, replace the front stabilizer control link.